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Focus on improving function and relieving pain
Pseudogout
Pseudogout is a disease of crystal deposition in varying joints. The crystals are different from those of gout, and are calcium pyrophosphate. Most commonly, Pseudogout causes pain swelling and redness in one or two joints, typically larger joints of the lower limb or the shoulders. This can be quite intensely painful and long lasting, and can appear similar to gout, hence the name. In other cases, it can affect the small joints of the hand, and mimic other forms of arthritis.
Causes of Pseudogout
The cause of pseudogout is calcium pyrophosphate deposition into joints, and subsequent triggering of these joints to cause localized inflammation. The risks factors include:
- Female gender
- Kidney disease
- Age
- Osteoarthritis
Are you experiencing any of the above symptoms?
Book a consultation with Dr Grundy today.
Diagnosis of Pseudogout
The diagnosis is often made either as a combination of history, clinical examination and imaging, or from aspirating joint fluid with a needle, and examining it under microscope to look for the causative crystals.
Treatment Options for Pseudogout
Unlike gout, there is no treatment that can remove the crystals from the joints. The treatment is focused on minimizing severity and frequency of the flares, and this can involve strengthening the joint, and medications such as NSAIDS, colchicine, and corticosteroids.
Contact Us
If you feel you have a condition or symptoms that may benefit from a Rheumatologist opinion, please seek a referral from your usual treating General Practitioner, and arrange for this to be forwarded to our clinic rooms. Once this referral is received our reception staff will contact you to discuss a booking time.
For further queries, please contact the clinic either by phone during business hours Monday-Friday, or by email.